Christine Senn moved to Columbus GA in 2007 as a Clinical Research Coordinator who had dedicated her career to pediatric oncology. Now 8 years later, Dr. Senn is recognized as an international leader for her experience and leadership in clinical research. 

Senn received the Outstanding Leadership in Clinical Research by a CRC Award last week in Salt Lake City at the 2015 Global Conference for Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). ACRP is the preeminent organization for clinical research professionals, with over 13,000 members in more than 70 countries. The award recognizes one person internationally who has made exceptional leadership contributions that has promoted excellence in clinical research.

Dr. Senn is an avid advocate for the many benefits of medical research. “Patients receive medical care in research trials that is almost unheard of these days. Because everything we do is paid for by the pharmaceutical and device companies we work with, we have the luxury of spending an hour or many hours with each patient, depending upon their needs,” said Senn.

“In some ways,” she continued, “research physicians remind me of physicians in the past who were able to make house calls. Although we have to follow protocols to treat patients that are completely based in the best available science, we also have time to discuss patients’ concerns and any medication side effects in great detail. Despite what some media will show, everyone’s first concern in research is patient safety, and we go through extensive training to accomplish this.” She added that, “when you add in the fact that we are able to bring new medications to physicians and patients, it’s really just an amazing profession to be in.”

Senn began her research career in pediatric oncology at University of Vermont then moved to Columbus Regional Research Institute where she has worked as CRC, Site Manager, and COO before moving to her current role. As Chief Implementation Officer, Senn is responsible for transitioning research-naïve group practices into accomplished research clinics. She is experienced in NIH, investigator-initiated, pharmaceutical, and device trials.

Senn serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and is the Chair of SERRG’s Quality Assurance and Compliance Committee. She holds her Ph.D. in Psychology and has Master degrees in both Clinical Psychology and in Advertising and Public Relations.